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If you’re anything like us, you’re already making plans for a summer holiday in the northern hemisphere. And when in Europe, the UK is a must-visit.
Think sunny days by the beach, old fashioned fish and chips, Pimm’s and pints in beer gardens, and fun-filled nights exploring cultural gems only the UK can offer.
Dreaming of a UK trip? Here are three under-the-radar hotels to add to your travel lust list.
The Lygon Arms, Broadway, Cotswolds
You can easily imagine stepping back in time to a bygone era when you walk through the heavy doors of this historic hotel.
Set in the heart of picture-perfect Broadway, there are roaring fires and history aplenty in The Lygon Arms, which, in parts, dates back to the 14th Century. While it certainly has a colourful history, the hotel recently underwent a multi-million pound programme of refurbishment and redecoration, and is stunning.
From the Great Hall with its vaulted ceiling and original wood panelling built in the 17th century to its newly updated bedrooms and suites, a spa and pool complex, a hidden garden, tennis court – old-fashioned glamour and understated luxury simply ooze from this historic establishment.
Fancy a day or evening out? Take a walk up to Broadway Tower or foodies should visit the Michelin starred Russell’s right next door to the hotel.
While you can even step inside the suite that Oliver Cromwell stayed in the night before the Battle of Worcester in 1651, more recent visitors include Barbra Streisand, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
And it’s a long-time favourite with A-listers, so be sure to keep your cool if Kate Moss or Stella McCartney perch next to you while you’re propping up the bar.
CitizenM London Bankside, London
Just six minutes walk to Tate Modern and everything Bankside has to offer, and eight minutes walk to London Bridge and Borough Market for budding foodies, CitizenM London Bankside is the perfect base for heading out in any direction while in London.
Back at the hotel, the sleek and modern lobby combines couches, books and a cocktail bar in the middle, for chilling or entertaining.
Rooms are super cosy and packed with everything you need for a chic city break – free WiFi, iPads, unlimited movies, and you can change the room temperature and even mood-lighting yourself. A huge rain shower with luxe toiletries is also a welcome relief after a day travelling or sightseeing.
And believe me, you’ll have the best night’s sleep of your life in the enormous XL King-Size bed. It’s placed right up next to the window so you don’t even have to leave the bed for uninterrupted city views, and topped with luxe white Italian sheets and the fluffiest pillows making it perfect for catching some zzzs after a sampling all that London has to offer.
The Swan, Southwold, Suffolk
Experience timeless English seaside charm when you stay in Southwold. The Swan is owned by local Adnams Brewery and its Georgian façade stands in the market square, mere steps from the beach and its famous multicoloured beach huts.
Don’t miss a walk along Southwold Pier for a trip down memory lane, with its wonderfully eccentric arcade of satirical homemade slot machines.
Nearby village of Walberswick, a little-known retreat for artists and actors alike, is the perfect spot for crabbing and is also a must-visit. Feeling energetic? Walk along the seafront from Southwold (about 25 minutes) and then catch the tiny rowing boat ferry across the River Blyth.
Rooms at The Swan are decorated in a seaside palette and beds have superb linens, duvets and perfect pillows for an uninterupted night’s sleep after all that sea air. There’s also added extras such as Bose speakers, a Nespresso machine, minibar and complimentary Adnams gin.
Make sure you take time for a tour of the brewery, which sits right behind the hotel. The Swan dates from the 1600s, but there’s been brewing on site here for at least 670 years. And it’d be rude not to have a pint while in town, right?
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